Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits
Few things beat the warm, flaky bite of a freshly baked ham and cheese butter biscuits. Whether you’re craving a savory breakfast, planning a brunch platter, or looking for a way to use up leftover ham, these biscuits are the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
But what makes ham and cheese biscuits so addictive? It’s the perfect harmony of buttery layers, salty ham, and melted cheese wrapped into one flaky handheld bite.
Before you start baking, it’s essential to know the key components that create the magic — and how to customize them for your taste.
🧠 A Brief History of Southern Biscuits
Butter biscuits have deep roots in Southern cuisine, originating as a simple staple made from flour, fat, and liquid. Over time, they’ve evolved into a comfort food classic, with modern additions like cheddar, bacon, and ham.
Today’s ham and cheese biscuit recipes take things further with added textures, flavors, and even Hasselback-style fillings.
🥣 What You’ll Need: Key Ingredients and Why They Matter
Let’s break down the building blocks of the perfect ham and cheese butter biscuit:
- Flour – All-purpose works, but self-rising flour gives a fluffier texture.
- Butter – Always use cold, unsalted butter to achieve maximum flakiness.
- Buttermilk – Adds moisture and slight tang. Here’s a substitute if you don’t have any.
- Cheese – Sharp cheddar is a classic, but Swiss, gouda, or pepper jack add character.
- Ham – Use Black Forest, country ham, or deli-sliced ham for best results.
- Scallions or Chives – Optional, but they bring brightness and depth.
- Dijon Mustard – A secret ingredient in some recipes. Adds zing and contrast.
Want to know how to store leftover ham safely? Check out this USDA guide to keep your biscuits fresh and safe.
🔬 The Science of a Flaky Biscuit
To get those flaky layers that make your biscuit pull apart like magic:
- Use cold ingredients
- Don’t overwork the dough
- Laminate (fold) if you want visible layers
- Chill dough before baking
This is the same principle used by pastry chefs when making croissants or puff pastry. Butter melts in the oven, creating steam pockets that puff up the dough.
👨🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits
Here’s how to make these biscuits from scratch:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, mix:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Cut in 7 tbsp cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until crumbly.
- Stir in:
- ¾ cup shredded cheese
- ¾ cup diced ham
- ½ cup sliced scallions (optional)
- Make a well in the center and add:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Optional: drizzle of honey
- Stir just until combined — do not overmix.
- Either:
- Drop spoonfuls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, or
- Roll and cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown
- Optional: Brush tops with melted butter right out of the oven
🔥 Pro Tip: For a twist, try the Hasselback style — slice into canned biscuits, stuff each slit with ham and cheese, and bake in muffin tins!
🧀 Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
One of the best things about ham and cheese butter biscuits is how easily they adapt to your cravings. Whether you like bold flavors, a bit of heat, or a veggie boost, these savory biscuits are your canvas for culinary creativity. Below are some tasty flavor variations and add-ins to take your biscuits to the next level.
🔄 Swap the Cheese
Cheese is where the magic happens! Instead of just sticking with sharp cheddar, try:
- Swiss cheese – Pairs beautifully with ham for a deli-style flavor.
- Pepper Jack – Adds a subtle heat and creamy melt.
- Gruyère or Fontina – Rich, nutty cheeses for a gourmet twist.
- Smoked gouda – Deliciously bold and melts beautifully.
🥓 Change Up the Protein
While diced ham is classic, you can experiment with:
- Crispy bacon – Smoky and salty, perfect for brunch.
- Turkey ham or deli meats – Lighter options that still bring flavor.
- Sausage crumbles – Great for a heartier biscuit with breakfast appeal.
🌶️ Spice and Herb Additions
Want to amp up the flavor? Add a little kick or freshness:
- Jalapeños or green chilies – For heat-lovers.
- Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley – Add aroma and depth.
- Scallions or chives – Offer a mild onion flavor that pairs well with cheese.
🍯 Sweet & Savory Combos
Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the dough or serve on the side for a sweet contrast that highlights the salty ham and sharp cheese.
No matter your flavor preference, these mix-ins ensure every batch of biscuits can be a bit different — and always delicious. Get creative and make them your own!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Ham and cheese butter biscuits are incredibly versatile, making them a perfect choice for any meal or occasion. Their flaky texture, savory filling, and buttery richness lend themselves to a variety of serving styles — from quick breakfasts to elegant brunch spreads.
☀️ Breakfast & Brunch
Start your morning off right by serving these biscuits warm with:
- Scrambled or fried eggs and fresh fruit
- Sliced avocado or tomato for a fresh, creamy contrast
- A side of gravy or hot sauce for dipping
For a brunch-worthy spread, serve alongside:
- A frittata or quiche
- Fresh greens or arugula salad with vinaigrette
- A platter of seasonal fruits and cheeses
🧺 Lunch or Light Dinner
Turn these biscuits into a full meal with:
- Soup pairings like tomato basil, potato leek, or creamy broccoli
- Salads with a protein boost, such as grilled chicken or tuna
- Use them to make mini sandwiches — just slice, fill, and serve!
🎉 Party Appetizers or Holiday Platters
- Bake mini versions and serve as savory hors d’oeuvres
- Pair with mustard dipping sauce, honey butter, or hot pepper jelly
- Add them to a holiday bread basket with other homemade treats
🍱 On-the-Go Snacking
These biscuits travel well and are easy to pack:
- Great for school lunches, road trips, or picnics
- Serve at room temperature or wrap in foil and reheat on the go
However you serve them, ham and cheese butter biscuits are sure to bring smiles to the table — warm, hearty, and endlessly craveable.
❄️ Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
One of the best things about ham and cheese butter biscuits is how well they store and reheat — making them ideal for meal prep, leftovers, or even last-minute entertaining.
🧊 Refrigerating Biscuits
Once baked, let your biscuits cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3–4 days. To preserve texture, avoid stacking them while warm, as condensation can cause sogginess.
❄️ Freezing (Unbaked and Baked)
- Unbaked Dough: After cutting or shaping your biscuits, place them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 1–2 hours. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen — just add 2–3 minutes to your usual bake time.
- Baked Biscuits: Cool completely, then wrap each biscuit tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. These can also last up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.
🔁 Reheating Tips
For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes. This restores the biscuit’s crisp edges and warm, fluffy center. Avoid microwaving unless you’re in a rush — it can make them rubbery or soggy.
Whether you’re making a big batch or saving a few for later, proper storage ensures your flaky, cheesy biscuits taste just as good the next day (or month).
🔄 What to Do with Leftovers
Got extra biscuits? Here’s what you can do:
- Slice and use for mini breakfast sandwiches
- Crumble over mac and cheese
- Serve with a fried egg for an easy brunch dish
- Dice and mix into a savory bread pudding
Soft and fluffy breadsticks topped with melted cheese and garlic butter, perfect for dipping or serving with pasta.
🍽️ Nutrition Snapshot (Per Biscuit)
- Calories: ~146 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 664mg
Healthier swaps include low-sodium ham, light cheese, and whole wheat flour.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits
1. Can I use pre-made dough for these biscuits?
Yes! Canned biscuit dough (like Pillsbury Grands) works well for fast prep. You can stuff the dough Hasselback-style with ham and cheese.
2. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and balances the saltiness of the ham. Swiss adds nutty depth, while pepper jack gives a spicy edge.
3. Can I make them in advance?
Absolutely. Prepare the dough ahead and freeze until ready to bake. You can also refrigerate unbaked biscuits overnight.
4. Do I have to use buttermilk?
No. You can use a DIY version: mix 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar. Let sit for 10 minutes.
5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, but use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend and be aware that texture may vary.
🧁 Final Thoughts
Ham and cheese butter biscuits are more than just a comfort food — they’re a versatile, flavor-packed addition to your recipe collection. With their flaky layers, buttery texture, and savory filling, these biscuits hit all the right notes for breakfast, brunch, or anytime snacking. Whether you’re working with leftover ham or planning a holiday brunch, this recipe is a go-to that never disappoints.
The beauty of these biscuits lies in their simplicity and adaptability. With just a few staple ingredients, you can create a satisfying dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make. From sharp cheddar and Black Forest ham to creative additions like jalapeños or Dijon mustard, the flavor possibilities are endless.
Best of all, they store well, freeze beautifully, and reheat without losing their tender crumb — making them perfect for meal prepping or sharing with friends and family.
So whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, ham and cheese butter biscuits are a must-try recipe that brings joy with every bite. Once you bake them, don’t be surprised if they become a staple at your table!
